Richard “Dick” Ira Maxwell

 Richard “Dick” Ira Maxwell of Ithaca, MI, passed away Saturday, April 23, 2023, at Rosewood AFC in Ithaca, where he resided and had received care for the past several years.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, at Barden Funeral Home in Ithaca, with Pastor Phil Maxwell officiating.  Interment will follow in Ithaca Cemetery.  Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 27.

Richard was born July 5, 1937 in North Star Township, Michigan, the son of Raymond Ted and Angeline (Tugen) Maxwell.  He graduated from Ithaca High School with the class of 1956.  He served in the Army Reserves and worked for Seal Power over 30 years.

Richard enjoyed hunting and fishing during his younger years, but most of his time was spent working on the family farm in the morning and his day job in the afternoons.  Richard was an integral part to the success of the Maxwell farm that was located on Begole road in Ithaca.  During his years of service on the farm, he enjoyed cutting hay, chopping corn, and getting the cows ready to sell.  Richard had a real love for raising beef cattle and caring for the day to day activities. especially after his retirement.

Richard loved his nieces and nephews and was always interested in what they were doing with their families.  Before his health began to decline, he enjoyed gathering with family for holidays and birthdays.  One of the things that many people will miss is his smart-aleck antics.  Richard liked to get things started with people in fun, as he enjoyed seeing smiles on peoples faces and making them laugh.

He is survived by his brother, Phillip (Linda) Maxwell; his sister, Ruthann Wymer; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Phyllis Heathcock; and his brothers-in-law, Richard Heathcock and Carl Wymer.

Memorial contributions may be given to Amara Hospice which had been instrumental in his recent care.  The family is being served by the Barden Funeral Home in Ithaca.  Condolences may be left for the family online at www.bardenfuneralhome.com.

Comments

[Marla Macha]

God's blessings be with you Ruth and Phillip (Sam). Have some of my fondest memories going to the Maxwell farm with my Mom and Dad as a young girl. Always welcomed with warmth and love. You will remain in my heart as family. Rest in peace Richard.

[Dora Gillmer]

So many great memories, the love of cousins. Ruthann and Phyllis would give us there old clothes, and us girls would love it because, all ours were home made. When we went to the farm Dick and Sam would show us how to tied an apple to a stick and ride Daisy the cow, all over the place. But then those two would have, there moments. Went milking the cows, they'd spirt us, and when cows were drinking water, they had us throw a pail of water at them, not telling us about the electric fence right there.!! We loved going out there.

[Judy Tugen]

I remember his beef and noodles he made when we got together at Dona and Rodney's house years ago. . They were so good. I was sad to learn his health had declined. He graduated with my brother, Art. I didn't get to experience his character side but he was always nice when we got together for reunions. But I did hear stories from years ago and have a picture of the cow story Dora told. Miss the early days with Uncle Ted and Aunt Ange. Enjoyed visiting the farm. RIP Dick. Thanks for the beef and noodles.

[Evelyn Martin]

Sorry for your loss. I was raised down the road from Dicks, but being so young , didn't really get to know Dick. But do remember , the Maxwell. Very caring and loving family. May he rest in Peace.

[Elvis & Myrna Wilson]

Sorry to hear of Dicks passing. I have lost contact with the Maxwell family. Did not know Sams name was Phillip. was a long time ago when we where in School together.

[Jane Temple Tugan]

I always enjoyed those Sunday afternoons when my parents would take us to Aunt Ange's and Uncle Ted's farm. Dick would entertain us, his much younger cousins, with showing us the cattle. I remember his teasing and the mischievous look in his eye. To Ruthann and Sam, I hope happy memories of your brother make you smile and bring you comfort.